Lorenzo Taliaferro, an NFL running back whose career with the Baltimore Ravens was cut short by injuries, has died at the age of 28.
According to local news station WBFF-TV Fox45, a family member of Talafierro said he died of a heart attack on Wednesday, Dec. 16. He was pronounced dead at 3:30 p.m. after being transported to Riverside Doctors' Hospital in his hometown of Williamsburg, Virginia.
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said in a statement that the NFL team is "deeply saddened" by the 28-year-old's death. "Lorenzo was a kind, smart, respectful and determined young man—someone always committed to his teammates and well-liked by everyone in our organization. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Lorenzo's family," the statement read. "May he rest in peace."
Taliaferro was drafted in 2014 by the Ravens. He played three seasons through 2016, but primarily as a backup to another sensation, Justin Forsett.
Over three seasons, Taliaferro suited up in 19 games but rushed for only 339 yards — most of it in his rookie campaign — and he scored five touchdowns while struggling to stay fit.
Before joining the Ravens, Taliaferro attended Coastal Carolina University on a football scholarship. There, in 2013, he rushed for 1,729 yards and 27 touchdowns and was named the Big South Offensive Player of the Year.
